Aug 31, 2022

Waist training: Waist trainers vs. Corsets (what’s the difference?)

One of the questions we are most frequently asked is the following: what is the difference between a corset and a waist trainer? And which is better to use?

In fact, we recommend both types of slimming garments! The best solution for you depends on a number of factors, including your personal goals, your style, your shaping needs, and your general preferences.

First, here is a brief definition of each garment:

A corset is a garment, generally constructed with steel bones, that thins the waist using laces to tighten in the back.

The waist trainer is a garment that thins the waist using a compression material, generally consisting of a latex core and hook-and-eye closures on the front.

It is important to note that both terms can actually refer to either style of garment. This can obviously be confusing. In general, we use the term "waist trainer" because it refers to the results you can achieve with regular use: an overall slimming of the waist. The term "corset" can also be a general term for garments that thin the waist. However, in the rest of this article, the term "waist trainer" will refer to the hook-and-eye variety, and the term "corset" to the lace-up variety.

In this article, we will explore the main differences between waist trainers and corsets, and then we will discuss the benefits of each.

Materials

The most immediately noticeable differences between corsets and waist trainers are the materials. Corset fabric is generally cotton, satin, or leather, with long flexible steel rods to give the garment its structure. On the front of corsets, you will generally see small steel cups that fasten in place. The satin laces at the back are used to tighten the corsets very tightly, which generally results in an immediate reduction of the waist circumference by 10 to 15 cm.

Waist trainers, on the other hand, are made from synthetic materials such as nylon, latex, and spandex. They also use plastic or sometimes steel to maintain their shape. The support cups fasten using hook-and-eye closures on the front. Instead of using laces to thin the waist, the materials provide firm compression, which generally results in a reduction of 1 to 3 inches in waist circumference. You can reduce the size of a waist trainer by fastening the tightest row of eyes with the hooks.

How to wear them

Waist trainers and waist-cinching corsets are generally used as styles of undergarments that are hidden under your outfit. Corsets are slightly harder to conceal under clothing due to the slight bulk of the busks and laces. For these reasons, some people prefer waist trainers for everyday use and may save their corsets for special occasions. That said, it can sometimes be tricky to wear shapewear under clothing. If you plan to wear something very revealing or very tight, you may prefer a corset without fasteners or even another style of seamless shapewear.

However, there are occasions when corsets and waist trainers work well as outerwear. A corset can be a stunning piece worn over a thin top; it can also be part of a burlesque outfit. Some corsets are even designed as overbusts, although they are generally used for special occasions and as costume pieces, rather than as everyday waist trainers. But they are very flattering for all body types, not to mention that they provide extra support for the bust.

If you have an Instagram account, then you are probably already aware that training waist trainers can be worn over a light tank top or with a simple sports bra. Most of the bright colors, sparkles, and patterns are meant to be shown off! Whether you are training at home and want to take shareable selfies with your waist trainers, or you want to draw attention to yourself at the gym, a training bandeau makes a statement in your workout wardrobe, in addition to its benefits in terms of waist reduction.

Uses and results

Training bands and corsets are both effective as part of a waist-slimming regimen. If you wear either for at least eight hours a day over an extended period, you will be able to achieve excellent results thanks to the additional thermal stimulation of your core, not to mention the extra support for your posture and the overall increase in your confidence.

Some women prefer corsets because they give a more dramatic hourglass shape. But others prefer the ease of use of waist trainers, as well as the versatility they offer under clothing.

One of the undeniable advantages of waist trainers over corsets is their effectiveness during workouts. In fact, many styles in our collection of training shapewear are designed exclusively for this purpose. They are offered in a shorter cut and are flexible yet durable. You will have great ease of movement while increasing the intensity of your workouts. And, as we mentioned above, they add to your workout wardrobe - the bright colors make them enjoyable to wear at the gym. In comparison, corsets and even regular waist trainers are not designed for this purpose. In fact, using them during workouts could damage them or cause you unnecessary discomfort.

Some women like to do waist training while sleeping, and in this case, we recommend using a waist trainer for more comfort. Some people use older, looser shapewear for this specific purpose. You may prefer a cincher without fasteners to ensure that you will not be bothered by the hooks during part of the night.

Additional comparisons

If you are still not sure which style of waist-slimming garment is best suited to your needs, it is actually a matter of preference. Here are other factors that can help you choose one over the other.

Durability

Without question, a lace-up corset is the most durable option for a waist-slimming regimen. The steel boning will not wear out anytime soon, and since you tighten the corset with laces, you will not lose any of the benefits of compression. In addition, you will always have a custom fit and you will have no problem keeping the garment tightly closed as your waist begins to slim.

A latex waist trainer, on the other hand, will need to be replaced if you wear it regularly. Over time, the latex loses its power and may not provide as firm a compression as a new garment. In addition, as your waist decreases, you may find that a cincher has limits when it comes to fastening.

Comfort

Both styles of garments have strengths and weaknesses in terms of comfort. Given that they are made from compression materials, you may find that corsets are not breathable enough - although sweating is one of the reasons for their effectiveness. Corsets are generally a bit more breathable. But, on the other hand, corsets are significantly less flexible (which is why waist trainers are better for workouts).

Another advantage of shapewear is that many of them are offered in a vest style. If you have a wider bust or want greater compression coverage for your back, this can be a preferable alternative for you.

Style options

Corsets can be very enjoyable to wear if they match your personal style. You can find them in a variety of colors, cuts, and even with certain embellishments. Support corsets are a completely different style, which you may or may not prefer. Corset lingerie gives you a feminine, vintage, or burlesque look. Support corsets come in a variety of colors and prints, as well as classic black and nude to hide under lighter clothing.

If you plan to wear them under your clothing, this may not be a deciding factor for you, unless your outfits are more revealing. In that case, waist trainers would probably be more suitable because they are easier to conceal.

Price

Although there are high-end and low-end choices for corsets and waist trainers, corsets are generally more expensive. Waist-cinching devices generally cost between 64 and 89 euros, while most steel corsets cost at least as much, and often more than 130 euros.

Ease of use

Ultimately, corsets are delicate and time-consuming to put on, while waist trainers are easier to use (although they can also be tricky!). Both garments simply require practice. However, if you tend to be in a hurry when getting dressed in the morning, the waist trainer may be the most convenient option.

We hope this article has helped clear up some of the confusion and questions that many people have when trying to choose between wearing a waist trainer or a corset. Ultimately, we love both garments and recommend either, depending on your preferences and needs. And remember that you can always contact us if you have any other questions!